About Us

Thank you for your interest in Practicum Training Institute!
We are pleased to provide you with further information about our training Institute, Staff and Programs that we offer.

Practicum Training Institute started as a vision in 2003 to provide practical hands on training to those in or wanting to enter into the Heavy Equipment Operating Industry.  Initially registered as a Category II Private Vocational School, Practicum Training Institute provided training for organizations on a contract basis.  The City of Saskatoon, Sask Highways, and SaskEnergy utilized training services during this time.

It quickly became apparent that there was also a demand for individual training and consequently the 240 Hour Pre-Employment Heavy Equipment Operator Program was implemented in 2004, changing the School to a Category I Private Vocational School registered with the Ministry of Advanced Education.  This particular program offers training on 4 pieces of equipment over a 4 week period.

Over the years it also became apparent that some individuals were simply in need of upgrading their operating skills, were only interested in receiving training on 1 specific piece of equipment or looking for a shorter program that may be more affordable for them.  Our School decided to register the 60 Hour Upgrading Heavy Equipment Operator Program to fill those needs.  This program offers training on 1 piece of equipment of your choice over a 1 week period.

For those individuals that can already demonstrate the knowledge and competencies in relation to the operation of powered mobile equipment, a full training program may not be needed. The 16 Hour Powered Mobile Equipment Competency Course is therefore offered as a review and evaluation to ensure that the operator meets the minimum requirements as per OH&S regulations.

Since inception every effort has been made to keep costs affordable, allowing as many students as possible to have the opportunity to receive quality training!

Our training programs place students in an environment similar to a job site and allows them to have the experience first hand, what a typical work day is like.  Comprehensive evaluations are given using both practical (operation competency) and written (exam) methods.  It is a requirement for all Practicum Training Institute programs to maintain complete log books and use accurate record keeping methods.  Compliance with current Occupational Health and Safety standards is also mandatory.  This provides both students and instructors a safe training/work environment.  Our training Institute has made a huge impact in the industry based on our high standards of training and believing safety is a paramount for success!

Owner/Principal:  Darrell Johanson continues to have a strong presence in the industry by maintaining memberships and holding positions at a board level.  Darrell became a member of the Operating Engineers in 1977 and honourably withdrew in 2005.  Darrell  has held Journeyman Qualifications on the Excavator since 2002.  Darrell has worked with the Saskatchewan Apprenticeship and Trade Certification Commission to develop the Occupational Analysis and test questions.  He has instructed with OTIS in trade training for pipeline operators from 1999 – 2003.  Darrell sat on the Pipeline Equipment Operator trade board since it’s inception in 2001 and is currently a chairman of that board.  He has contributed to the National Occupation Analysis for Heavy Equipment Operators trade in Ottawa for the Red Seal program and has contributed to the development and review of the examination questions.  Darrell has also contributed to the Inter-Provincial Training Guide for the Red Seal program in Ottawa.

Instructors:  Our team of qualified instructors are also registered with The Ministry of Advanced Education.  Our instructors have the necessary hands on training in equipment operation, safety training, experience and knowledge in the Heavy Equipment Operating Industry to help you become a successful operator in the industry as well!